Ford Unveils Hybrid and Diesel Taxis

On Thursday, Ford announced two new taxi models that combine forward-looking technology with proven body styles. For the first time, Ford is offering a hybrid powertrain in a taxi model that is said to get a 40 mpg in the city. Whether you’re looking for something shaped like a van or a sedan, Ford’s got it.

The Fusion Hybrid Taxi is Ford’s first hybrid taxi model and is said to be Ford’s most fuel-efficient taxis to date. The taxi includes a police-tuned suspension with increased ride height and calibrated high-performance brakes, plus steel wheels. It features heavy-duty cloth seating or optional vinyl seating, vinyl floors, available School Bus Yellow paint, a standard rearview camera, and a mounting plate on top of the instrument panel to secure taxi meters and other fleet equipment, according to Ford.

Ford also announced the Transit Connect Taxi that has a 1.5-liter diesel engine and more room behind the second row than the competing Nissan NV200 Taxi. The 2019 Transit Connect Taxi is based on the new Transit Connect Wagon. Transit Connect Taxi, when equipped with available 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine, is targeted to return an EPA-estimated Highway rating of at least 30 mpg. Actual mileage will vary.

The 2019 Transit Connect Taxi and 2019 Fusion Hybrid Taxi can be ordered now. Both Ford taxi models go on sale at the end of the year.

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Marla is a native San Franciscan who loves to eat and travel. In 1996, she took her first trip to Beijing to train in Chinese martial arts (Wushu/Taiji), and there began her love for China. She went back to Beijing many times after that to train, and continued to learn about the culture and language. After she finished college, she decided to study abroad at Beijing University to enroll in their one year Chinese program. Once the program was over, Marla decided to stay and work in China, and lived in Beijing for three years.When Marla is not traveling, she enjoys writing poetry, and practicing bikram yoga.